King Lear of Britain, elderly and wanting to retire from the duties of the monarchy, decides to divide his realm among his three daughters, and declares he will offer the largest share to the one who loves him most.

The eldest, Goneril, speaks first, declaring her love for her father in fulsome terms.

Moved by her flattery Lear proceeds to grant to Goneril her share as soon as she has finished her declaration, before Regan and Cordelia have a chance to speak.

He then awards to Regan her share as soon as she has spoken.

When it is finally the turn of his youngest and favourite daughter, Cordelia, at first she refuses to say anything ("Nothing, my Lord") and then declares there is nothing to compare her love to, no words to properly express it; she says honestly but bluntly that she loves him according to her bond, no more and no less, and will reserve half of her love for her future husband.

Infuriated, Lear disinherits Cordelia and divides her share between her elder sisters.